Blunt Signs Deadly Force Bill

JEFFERSON CITY - Governor Matt Blunt is signing legislation allowing Missourians to fatally shoot intruders without fear of prosecution or lawsuits. The measure spells out that people are not required to retreat from an intruder and can use deadly force once the person illegally enters their home, car or other dwelling. Under the old law, deadly force was justified only if people believed it necessary to protect themselves or others from death or serious injury. The looser standard takes effect in late August. The bill also includes a response to the Virginia Tech slayings. It allows court records ordering people to get mental health treatment to go to the national system used for background checks on gun buyers.